A behind-the-scenes look at the CNN Republican debate

Given just how much has changed in the GOP race after the first debate and given the upcoming end to the fundraising quarter (Sept. 30), the pressure is on for the 11 Republican candidates to perform Wednesday’s Republican primary debate in California.

Moments like these, before debates, are crucial to the candidates, who must retain their confidence throughout the night, which is already built for tension. Until the candidates make their way toward the stage, members of the press exploit these brief moments and will often swarm any available candidate.

We asked notable Redux photographer Mark Peterson to shoot the lively “photospray” that happened before the debates began. He watched the presidential hopefuls arrive with anticipation, ready to talk to journalists about any matter under the hot Californian sun.